Reviewed by: Lacey Muenstermann
How one company collected 600 lbs. of recyclables at the Magic City Classic + is creating a sustainable Bham
Reading time: 3 minutes
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In October, Birmingham’s Legion Field welcomed close to 70,000 fans to watch two Alabama football teams face off in the largest HBCU classic in the nation—the Magic City Classic.
But did you know that 14,396 plastic bottles and aluminum cans were collected at the game?
Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED and Osprey Initiative brought event recycling to the 83rd annual Magic City Classic, and they’re not stopping there. Keep on reading to learn how this sustainability effort is making Birmingham better.
600+ pounds of recyclable materials collected at Magic City Classic
The Magic City Classic brings two in-state rivals, Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University, together for the biggest HBCU football rivalry in the country.
For the first time in its 122 years, Coca-Cola UNITED introduced event recycling to the 83rd annual Magic City Classic.
Coca-Cola UNITED and Osprey Initiative collected over 14,000 plastic bottles and aluminum cans at the Classic—totaling more than 600 pounds of recyclable materials!
How did Coca-Cola UNITED + Osprey Initiative do it?
The Magic City Classic is an all-day event. Between the parade, the tailgate and the game, it’s a huge event. (I went for the first time this year and can attest).
So, how, during the largest HBCU football face-off, did these two organizations collect so many bottles and cans?
According to Coca-Cola UNITED, attendees were encouraged to keep the space “clean and green” by disposing of plastic bottles and aluminum cans in recycling bins placed throughout the venue.
“It’s about more than collecting bottles and cans—it’s about inspiring change, reducing waste and creating a lasting, positive legacy for events that bring people together.”
Tammy Stubbs, Corporate Director of Sustainability, Coca-Cola UNITED
The good news doesn’t stop there—this will be an annual effort moving forward!
Creating a more sustainable Birmingham
Through event recycling, reverse vending machines and more efforts, Coca-Cola UNITED is committed to building a more sustainable future—for our beautiful city and beyond.
“We recognize that our responsibility goes beyond delivering refreshing beverages. It’s about doing our share to protect and preserve the natural environment in our neighborhoods and communities.”
Tammy Stubbs, Corporate Director of Sustainability, Coca-Cola UNITED
Check out more of the organization’s sustainability efforts and partnerships:
- Have you seen these reverse vending machines?
- Local businesses in Birmingham work together to lead the way on sustainability
- DASANI + Sprite boost sustainability packaging
Keep up with Coca-Cola UNITED and see how they build a better + more sustainable Birmingham.
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